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Nebraska achieves significant improvements to school connectivity, surpasses national average for student bandwidth

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Lincoln, Nebraska (February 10, 2021) – Nebraska state and school district leaders have made huge strides in their efforts to improve school connectivity across the state, according to data published by nonprofit Connected Nation through its Connect K-12 program website.


“To grow our state, we have to connect the next generation of Nebraskans with digital learning opportunities,” said Governor Pete Ricketts.  “We’re working to give students and teachers across Nebraska better access to high-quality internet service.  The strides we’ve taken are helping schools equip our youth with the skillsets they’ll need to succeed in the 21st-century workplace.”


The state, through the leadership of Network Nebraska, has made huge improvements in school internet connectivity, particularly from 2019 to 2020. Leaders increased the number of school districts meeting or exceeding the federally recommended goal of 1 Mbps per student from 34% to 57%—a 23 percentage point improvement in just a single year (based on data as of January 31, 2021). You can find an overview of the state’s school district connectivity here: https://connectk12.org/states/NE.


“Not only has Nebraska made great strides in improving classroom connectivity within more school districts, but the state is now exceeding the national average for bandwidth per student,” said Emily Jordan, Vice President, Connect K-12. “While just 47% of school districts nationwide are meeting the 1 Mbps per student goal set by the Federal Communications Commission, 57% of Nebraska school districts are doing so.  Such speeds make it possible for digital learning to take place in every classroom, every day.”


The Connect K-12 website is a FREE tool that aggregates, analyzes, and visualizes E-rate data so school district and state leaders can more easily and effectively negotiate better internet pricing and reach their connectivity goals.  To learn more, visit https://connectk12.org/.


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About Connected Nation: Our mission is to improve lives by providing innovative solutions that expand access to and increase the adoption and use of broadband (high-speed internet) and its related technologies for all people. Everyone belongs in a Connected Nation.


Connected Nation works with consumers, local community leaders, states, technology providers, and foundations to develop and implement technology expansion programs with core competencies centered on a mission to improve digital inclusion for people and places previously underserved or overlooked. For more information please visit connectednation.org and follow Connected Nation on Facebook and Twitter.


About Funds For Learning: Funds For Learning® is a professional firm specializing in the federal E-rate funding program. Its mission is to provide high-quality consulting and support services for the needs of E-rate program participants, including preparing and submitting paperwork, and helping clients to understand and maintain compliance with E-rate rules and regulations. Proudly serving schools and libraries since 1997. For more information please visit https://www.fundsforlearning.com/.